Kim Jae-Young shares insights on his role in "Idol Eye," expressing gratitude and discussing the challenges of portraying Do-Rike.

Kim Jae-Young, who starred in the drama "Idol Eye," spoke candidly about his feelings towards the work. "Idol Eye" is a mystery courtroom romance that begins when the star lawyer Men Sena (Sooyoung) takes on the case of her 'ultimate favorite' idol, Do-Rike (Kim Jae-Young), who is accused of murder. Kim Jae-Young brilliantly expressed the wide emotional range of his character, from the glamorous appearance of a top star to the extreme situation of being a murder suspect, becoming Do-Rike himself in the drama. He depicted the overwhelming aura on stage and the contrasting crisis he faces through meticulous character analysis. The multifaceted nature of Do-Rike, who appears cold on the outside but has a childlike innocence inside, was portrayed with rich emotional expression, leaving viewers deeply moved and with lingering impressions. -- Please tell us your thoughts after finishing "Idol Eye." Kim Jae-Young: "Idol Eye" truly brought me a lot of joy. I could complete it thanks to the staff, the director, the fellow actors, and my partner, Sooyoung, who played Men Sena. I am sincerely grateful for the happy times we created together. -- What made you take on the role of the top star Do-Rike? Kim Jae-Young: While the charm of being in an idol band is significant, I was strongly attracted to the character's unpretentious, childlike purity. The emotional range was vast, and there were many aspects I could express through acting, including the external elements of being in an idol band, which was truly appealing. -- What part did you pay the most attention to while preparing for Do-Rike? Kim Jae-Young: It was my first time playing an idol, so the pressure was immense. There were many scenes where I had to sing and play instruments, and I worked hard to make those parts look natural. I also struggled with how to realistically convey the rapidly changing emotions of being suspected of murdering Woosung (Ahn Wooyoung) at the beginning of the story. -- The name Do-Rike is quite impressive; what was your first impression when you heard it? Please tell us about Do-Rike's unique charm. Kim Jae-Young: At first, I thought it was a bit unfamiliar, but I found it interesting and thought it would stick in people's memories. Do-Rike may seem blunt and childish on the surface, but he is actually a warm person who wishes to protect those around him more than anyone else. His methods may seem reckless and clumsy, but I found it very appealing how he seeks to protect those who believe in him while trying to do so in his own way. -- Please tell us about any particularly memorable scenes or lines. Kim Jae-Young: "Idol Eye" is a work that fuses various genres, so there were many moments for me to challenge myself as an actor. Because the emotional range was so wide, I was always struggling with how to deliver that depth most realistically. Adjusting the intensity of emotions was not easy, but it was very rewarding. I put my all into every scene, and there are no unimportant scenes, so it's really difficult to choose just one memorable scene (laughs). -- The stage performances like a real idol have become a topic of discussion; do you have any secrets? Kim Jae-Young: I referred to many stage videos, but above all, the staff created truly wonderful stages. Especially, Sooyoung, my partner, provided accurate advice based on her actual experience in activities, and I believe I was able to achieve this thanks to her support for the Gold Boys members. -- I heard you were the mood maker on set; how was your chemistry with your co-stars, including Sooyoung as Men Sena? Kim Jae-Young: Not just me, but Sooyoung and the director were very humorous and energetic. All the other actors were bright, and we shot while sharing ideas and joking around. It was a really fun set. -- How do you think you will remember Do-Rike? Kim Jae-Young: I jokingly said it would be my “last idol role,” but I really feel that way (laughs). He is such a special and important presence, and every moment that passed felt like an unforgettable gift. Living as Do-Rike in 2025, I learned so much both as an actor and as a person, and I felt an overwhelming amount of happiness. -- What did you gain from playing Do-Rike? Kim Jae-Young: Above all, I gained "confidence." I had concerns about being the center of an idol band and playing instruments, but looking back, that pressure turned into enjoyment. I feel I have grown a level. -- What score would you give your synchronization with the character? Kim Jae-Young: Since I played the character, I feel there are many similarities. It was challenging, but I could deeply empathize with the troubles and situations Do-Rike faces. -- You are actively working with your next project, "As I Tremble"; what are your plans for 2026? Kim Jae-Young: I am very happy just to have another project. This year, I plan to show a new side of myself in the drama "As I Tremble" and will also fully engage in filming the movie "Crime City 5." I will keep running without rest, so please watch over me. -- Lastly, please say a word to the fans who loved the work and Do-Rike. Kim Jae-Young: "Idol Eye" has left me with many wonderful memories and encounters, and it is a very important work for me. I was truly happy to receive so much love from everyone and could spend such happy times. I sincerely thank everyone who empathized with the work and watched it until the end. I hope all fans, when facing tough times, believe that "this too shall pass," gather the courage to do what they want, and achieve everything they desire. Thank you.